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Pepper Jack

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Common questions

Is Pepper Jack healthy?

Pepper Jack scores 75/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This Pepper Jack cheese is made from cultured pasteurized milk and jalapeño peppers, providing high-quality protein and calcium with minimal additives.

How processed is Pepper Jack?

Pepper Jack is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Pepper Jack's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Monterey Jack Cheese counts in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Pepper Jack

Whole Foods Market
75 Good

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Whole Foods Market
Category Cheese
Summary

This Pepper Jack cheese is made from cultured pasteurized milk and jalapeño peppers, providing high-quality protein and calcium with minimal additives. The product is processed, which limits its score, but it maintains a clean ingredient list without harmful substances, making it a healthy choice within its category.

Key ingredients 4

Monterey Jack Cheese
Good

Monterey Jack Cheese is a source of high-quality protein and calcium, essential for bone health. It is made from cultured pasteurized milk, which ensures safety and digestibility. The cheese provides beneficial fats and nutrients, contributing to a balanced diet.

Risks

Contains lactose, which may cause digestive issues for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Benefits

Rich in protein and calcium, supporting muscle and bone health. Provides beneficial fats that can be part of a healthy diet.

See more about Monterey Jack Cheese →
Red And Green Jalapeño Peppers
Neutral

Jalapeño peppers add flavor and a spicy kick to the cheese. They are minimally processed and retain their natural nutrients. While they enhance taste, they do not significantly alter the nutritional profile of the cheese.

Risks

May cause irritation or discomfort for individuals sensitive to spicy foods.

Benefits

Adds flavor and contains capsaicin, which may have metabolism-boosting properties.

Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve the cheese. It is a common ingredient in cheese production, providing necessary sodium. While it is essential for flavor, excessive consumption can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Essential for flavor enhancement and preservation in cheese production.

See more about Salt →
Microbial Enzymes
Neutral

Microbial enzymes are used in cheese making to aid in coagulation. They are a vegetarian alternative to animal rennet and are widely accepted in cheese production. These enzymes do not significantly impact the nutritional value of the cheese.

Benefits

Allows for cheese production without animal-derived rennet, suitable for vegetarians.

See more about Microbial Enzymes →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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